Thursday, April 3, 2008

In an effort to synchronize my brand, I'm looking to take this blog over to Wordpress and will keep you updated.

April should bring on some new projects, but I am switching about 25% of my efforts into magazine writing. Unfortunately the payoff isn't as immediate as biz-tech writing, but it is a direction that I definitely want to go in.

Last, but certainly not least, I will be offering translation English-Spanish-English services for a select few clients. This will be part of an overall effort to tap into the blossoming Latino market here in the US.

Monday, March 24, 2008

My husband and I were recently talking about my business and I noted how well this writing life suits me. I have never been particularly social, having finished high school in a rural area. I mostly remember long lonely horseback rides, bike rides and walks in my pre- boyfriend days. Before that, I was the gawky pre teen with my nose constantly (seriously, I do mean constantly) in a book. I like being alone quite a bit.

That's funny, given that I have spent time in PR, event planning and marketing, huh? I can take it, quite happily, in meted doses.

However, there are a couple aspects of this writing life that I do not savor. Technology, for one. I dislike the roar of the internet, the thought that you are not truly alone, even when you feel alone. Isn't that odd? I've kept journals since age 11 in complete anonymity, and yet the practice catches on in the form of blogging, and I am writing, suddenly, for the audience that pays my mortgage...

I also miss the partitioning of work. When I worked at the local University and Community College, I easily passed off things that others were versed in: technology hiccups, administrative tasks that I could not complete. Everything is me now, us if my husband/silent partner is available.

But overall, I do enjoy the quiet efficiency that's going on around here.

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Between snow days, sicknesses, and my recent trip, my work has been falling down around my ears. I am taking a brief time out to realign GardenWall's priorities and finish up what I can.This means I will not be seeking new contracts for a bit, or taking on anything new.

Thanks for understanding, and if you need a referral- I've got a bunch!

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

. . .just finished two local projects that I was quite pleased with.. . . heading to training for a client in Manhattan next week, but don't worry, am bringing my trusty laptop with!. . .just took over www.bloggingpointers.com

Friday, January 18, 2008

Be sure to check out availability dates for the next couple weeks.

I am actively seeking work, as I've found a 2-3 week lag time between seeking and finding, so I'm scheduling work now. However, if you need something before the end of January, let me know, and I'll see if I can work you in!

Friday, January 11, 2008

Ahh, we always want MORE don't we? How many times do I have to live my professional dreams to be satisfied? Why do I always want more professionally?

In the last couple months I have procured a high-profile assignment, received paid (freebie) travel opportunities, been paid $80 per hour to edit curriculum on Shakespeare, and did business (bilingually) for a magazine with a subject that is near and dear to me. I also live many women's dream of working from home in a flexible job that pays as well as an out-of-the-house job.

I mean, 5 years ago I would have said "Looks like I made it"- but today all I want is more, more, more!

Monday, January 7, 2008

Following are the goals I tweaked over the course of last week. Sorry about all the "xxxxx"- proprietary information!Business Goals:Gross 3500 month with part time hoursGrow client base: add 5 repeat customers, keep current 10 repeatsJoin orgs: SPAWN, etcAccept one speaking engagementForay into Podcast and VideoUse volunteer match to take on short term writing volunteer oppBecome LLC or LLP (currently sole proprietorship)Take blog off of blogger- move to something on my own .comKeep up blogs on Techno and PingLearn Digg/StumbleStart package products: press releasesRead: Copywriters Handbook by BlyDelineate work v. family timeKeep up AdelantedbaseKeep up my dbaseDiversify into indexing- take classCold call/get established with local ad agencies/graphic artists

Marketing:Press release About.com?Ezine articlesQuarterly newsletterOne targeted print or online adPut up videoJoin alumni assoc & use their toolsUse MerchantCircle toolsOnline networking: XXXAsk for credit on website- reccoDo Google adwords from GoDaddyFind and advertise in 10 online directoriesGo to one local trade/business show (xxx)December- send out greeting cardsSubmit blog to 20 Links under bookmark “business info”Pin up cards on all boardsYellow pages/white pagesForm a partnership with another freelancer (graphic designer, web designer)Listing at xxx.com literary marketplaceSend THANK YOU to each projectAdd social bookmarking to all blog postsPut up ads in xxx.com and xxx.com and keep upDo a brochure/postcardBecome an Expert at Yahoo Answers and ALLEXPERTS

Thursday, January 3, 2008

1)I've updated the sidebar with "off" dates. Don't forget that I guarantee instant availability via phone and email during my set office hours as listing on my website: www.gardenwallpublications.com.

2)If you're a client looking at hiring me after a long lag time since my application, please don't hesitate to write me. Chances are that I am available. I had anticipated a month of job searching this January, but just picked up to older jobs. Thanks!